illustrated portrait of American writer Louisa May Alcott

Work: A Story of Experience

by Louisa May Alcott

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Feminist Independence

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Christie Devon sets out on a quest for self-fulfillment through work that resonates deeply with her. Her journey delves into themes of feminist independence and the pursuit of ethical and community-oriented values. Significantly, the novel begins with Christie proclaiming to her aunt, "a new Declaration of Independence." At first, as a young and inexperienced adult, Christie's main goal is to achieve personal independence. Yet, even then, she has an emerging desire to connect with others. She believes she will find satisfaction if she can earn her living "honestly and happily," while also leaving behind an inspiring example that might "help one other woman." From the outset, the spirit of community is woven into Christie's quest. A "useful, happy woman" cannot flourish in solitude.

Moral and Communal Values

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Christie's varied work experiences teach her important moral lessons and highlight her social responsibilities. In her initial job as a maid, she faces demeaning conditions and earns very little. Through a fellow worker, she learns humility and begins to sympathize with the abolitionist movement.

When Christie shifts her career to acting, she realizes that the financial benefits do not compensate for the vanity that the profession often promotes. As a governess, she witnesses the emptiness of living among the idle rich and rejects a condescending proposal from her employer's indolent brother.

Later, as a companion to a mentally unstable young woman, she sees firsthand the tragedy that can affect a family ruled by a mother's materialistic desires.

Social Barriers and Women's Struggles

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Later, as a seamstress, Christie takes a stand against the firing of a "fallen" woman because of her past, despite the woman's attempts to rebuild her life through honest work. By supporting her co-worker, Christie herself is dismissed, resulting in the loss of a steady income. This pushes her, now approaching thirty, into a state of suicidal despair. This event underscores the persistent theme of women being hindered by a society that prevents them from supporting themselves, regardless of their determination and efforts. Christie's recovery during her time with the Sterlings highlights the idea that domestic life can be fulfilling and rewarding when it is based on equality and friendship.

Equality and Community Service

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The central feminist theme, which connects equality and community service to women's fulfillment and effectiveness, persists even after Christie gets married. She and her husband both support the Union cause until David sustains a fatal injury. On his deathbed, David tells Christie, "You will do my part, and do it better than I could." Christie takes charge of his greenhouse business, operating it with a socially aware, cooperative mindset. The story illustrates that a woman can assume a man's responsibilities and thrive. The novel ends with Christie and other women joining forces, forming "a loving league of sisters, old and young, black and white, rich and poor, each ready to do her part to hasten the coming of the happy end." For Christie, reliance on each other has replaced independence.

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Characters

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